This semiannual report summarizes the work of the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) from October 1, 2004, through March 31, 2005. The audits, inspections, investigations, reviews, and other activities highlighted in this report illustrate our commitment to promote integrity, accountability, efficiency, and effectiveness in the programs and operations of the Department of Justice (Department).

The OIG continues to focus many of its resources on examining priority issues in the Department, such as its counterterrorism efforts, its information and intelligence-sharing capabilities, the upgrade of its information technology (IT) systems, and other top management challenges. For example, during this reporting period we reviewed the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) management of its Trilogy IT modernization project and problems in the implementation of the critical Virtual Case File. We also examined ongoing efforts by the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to integrate their automated fingerprint identification databases, IAFIS and IDENT.

In addition, we completed important reviews in other Department components. For example, we issued reviews of the U.S. Marshals Service’s (USMS) Witness Security Program and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) implementation of the Safe Explosives Act. At the same time, we have ongoing reviews of many other important issues in the Department, such as the operations of the Terrorist Screening Center, and the FBI’s implementation of Attorney General Guidelines. The OIG also continues to conduct important criminal and administrative investigations. Examples of investigations highlighted in this report include allegations of sexual abuse of federal inmates and attempted fraud against the September 11 Victim Fund.

Finally, the OIG looks forward to a positive working relationship with the new Attorney General and other Department managers as we strive to assist in their efforts to ensure economy, efficiency, and integrity in Department operations. We also appreciate the continued support we receive from Congress as we pursue our oversight responsibilities.